The MacDonald of the Isles Clan

Clan Motto:
PER MARE PER TERRASTranslation:
BY SEA AND BY LAND

Somerled of the Isles, founder of the Clan Donald, expelled the Norsemen from the Western Isles in the 12th century. He was killed in 1164 when engaged in battle against King Malcolm IV. John, son of Angus Og, who supported Robert the Bruce, took the title of "Lord of the Isles" in 1354. The 2nd Lord claimed the Earldom of Ross and fought in support of his claim at Harlaw in 1411. His son became Earl of Ross and the title was acknowledged in 1430. The last Lord of the Isles became a Peer in 1476, but came into conflict with the king and, in 1494, the Lordship of the Isles was annexed to the crown.